Masskara Festival is held every 3rd weekend of October in Bacolod City. This started in 1980. This was the time when the sugar industry was at its low and tragedy happened in April 1980 when M/V Don Juan sunk where an estimated 700 passengers perished. This also included the incumbent mayor's wife and daughter too. How tragic it could be for all Negrenses.
Bacolod City was already known as the City of Smiles back then. It was then decided by the local artists and local government to hold a festival of smiles. It would also be a good opportunity for the people to rise from their grief and come out as strong and triumphant people inspite of adversities.
Thus, the smiling faces in the masks was used to hide the grief of the people.
The word Masskara was coined from two words. "Mass" meaning a multitude and "kara" a Spanish word for face. Thus, Masskara is a multitude of smiling faces.
Bacolod City's Charter was signed on June 18, 1933 and was inaugurated as a city on October 19, 1938 by Pres. Manuel L. Quezon. Hence, Masskara Festival is celebrated every Charter Day.
Photos shown here were the costumes worn during the streetdance competition held every 3rd Saturday and 3rd Sunday for the School and Barangay Categories, respectively. These photos were on display at Robinsons Place, Bacolod City for judging.
For more details about the Masskara Festival, pls click on this link. http://www.themasskarafestival.com/about-masskara/why-masskara/
To learn more about Bacolod City, pls click on this link: http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/
For details or inquiries regarding tours for Bacolod and Negros, pls email viajenegrense@gmail.com
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NICE COSTUMES, PERFECT SHOTS! THIS YEAR'S MASSKARA WAS A TOTAL SUCCESS. SUPER ENJOYABLE WITH NEW PUPPETS ON THE ROAD. I CONGRATULAE THE MASSKARA COMMITEE'S FOR A JOB WELL DONE.KUDOS!
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